When Wang Ben returned, the nine-horse-drawn imperial carriage followed behind him.
Wang Jian and his wife immediately became solemn.
Before they could speak, the carriage's steps were lowered.
Ying Zheng stepped out slowly, but he did not leave immediately. Instead, he extended his hand, and Liyang Princess placed hers in his.
"Liyang," he said gently, "Today, your father is here to personally send you off in marriage."
Holding his daughter's hand, he led her down from the carriage and slowly walked toward the Wang residence.
"Your Majesty."
Wang Jian immediately stepped forward and bowed respectfully.
"There is no ruler and minister today," Ying Zheng said with a slight smile. "I am here as a father sending off his daughter."
"Ben'er."
Wang Jian immediately understood and called out, "Yes, Father."
Wang Ben stepped forward at once and approached Ying Zheng.
"Wang Ben," Ying Zheng said, "you are my subject and one of my most trusted generals."
"But today, you are my son-in-law."
"Liyang is my most cherished daughter. I hope you will take good care of her and never let her suffer."
His tone carried no royal authority, only the earnestness of a father entrusting his daughter's happiness.
"Please rest assured, Father. I will never mistreat Liyang," Wang Ben responded with equal solemnity.
"I believe you." Ying Zheng smiled and gently placed Liyang's hand into Wang Ben's.
"Let the feast begin!"
Wang Jian called out loudly.
"Your Majesty, please."
Wang Jian stepped aside, inviting Ying Zheng to enter first.
"Tonight, I walk alongside the Qin family," Ying Zheng said with a smile.
"I accept your decree," Wang Jian replied without hesitation.
The two walked side by side into the residence.
Meanwhile, outside the grand hall of the estate, banquet tables had been arranged in neat rows. The guests had all taken their seats.
Nearly all the court officials were present, as well as many prominent merchants and respected figures from Xianyang.
Of course, Zhao Sheng was among them.
However, unlike later generations where banquets had communal seating, the seating arrangement in this era was individual.
The Wang residence had organized everything meticulously, seating guests according to their status and official rank.
"The King of Qin truly values Liyang," one guest murmured.
"He even used the imperial carriage to send her off."
"My dear brother-in-law has truly married a noble figure."
"Being the son-in-law of the king is an honor, but he won't be able to scold or punish her. That's quite a predicament," Zhao Feng mused, enjoying the spectacle.
Weddings in this era were not something he had attended often. Other than seeing a few village weddings as a child, this was the first time he was actually participating in one.
"Father, this food is delicious!"
Zhao Qi and Zhao Ling sat on either side of Zhao Feng, happily feasting on the fresh fruits and dishes, even feeding their father some bites.
Wang Yan was not present, as she had not yet officially married and, as an unmarried woman, could not appear in public.
"Eat as much as you like," Zhao Feng said with a smile.
He doted on his children greatly.
Once his business in Xianyang was settled, he planned to take them back home.
Zhao Sheng's seat was the third one on the steps.
Ahead of him sat Meng Wu and Huan Yi, though they had yet to take their seats.
As Ying Zheng and Wang Jian slowly approached, all the gathered ministers and esteemed guests stood up.
"We welcome Your Majesty."
Zhao Feng naturally followed suit.
"Father, what is a 'Your Majesty'?"
Zhao Qi asked curiously.
"The king is the ruler of Great Qin, the master of this nation," Zhao Feng explained with a smile.
"Then doesn't that mean he can have whatever he wants?" Zhao Qi asked innocently.
"Haha, something like that," Zhao Feng laughed.
Just then, Meng Wu and Huan Yi entered.
Noticing Zhao Feng, both men nodded slightly in acknowledgment.
Zhao Feng returned the gesture politely.
He had only met them once in court, exchanged a few words, and had not interacted much with them since.
"My father-in-law is a wise man, and so are Meng Wu and Huan Yi," Zhao Feng mused.
"Military officials should not become too close, lest they arouse the ruler's suspicion."
"They understand this principle well."
At this moment, Zhao Feng spotted Fusu and Wang Wan among the guests.
Unlike the military officials, they were seated across from them.
Tonight's wedding feast was undoubtedly a grand occasion.
Whether the guests were offering sincere blessings or just putting on a show, at least they had all come.
"Father, look! Uncle and Auntie are here!"
Zhao Qi exclaimed excitedly.
Zhao Ling, though more reserved, also looked on curiously, eager to see what their aunt looked like.
Of course, their father was also curious.
He immediately looked up.
Wang Ben held Liyang's left hand, while her other hand held a delicate fan, partially concealing her face as they walked forward.
Both were dressed in traditional black wedding attire.
In this era, wedding garments were not bright red but primarily black with red accents, in line with Qin's color customs.
"I can't see Auntie's face," Zhao Qi pouted in disappointment.
"You'll see her in the future," Zhao Feng chuckled.
But judging by Liyang's figure, she was likely quite beautiful.
"My brother-in-law is quite lucky," Zhao Feng thought to himself.
At this moment, Ying Zheng and Wang Jian arrived at the grand hall.
Wang Jian and his wife took their seats on the right, while Ying Zheng sat on the left.
No concubine had the honor of representing Liyang's mother at this event.
"Today, on this auspicious occasion," Wang Jian declared loudly, "we celebrate a great marriage in the Wang family."
"Dear guests, enjoy the feast to your heart's content!"
"The wedding ceremony begins!"
"The bride and groom, step forward!"
The steward announced in a commanding voice.
Wang Ben led Liyang forward.
"First, bow to the heavens and earth!"
The newlyweds performed the ceremonial bow.
"Second, bow to the elders!"
…
"Third, bow to each other!"
…
(Since I'm not entirely sure about the exact wedding customs of this period, I'll keep it simple.)
"Serve tea to the elders!"
The steward called out.
Wang Ben and Liyang first served tea to Ying Zheng, then to Wang Jian and his wife.
After that, the guests began to feast.
"Father," Zhao Qi asked, "is this what a wedding banquet is like?"
"It doesn't seem very fun."
"What would make it fun?" Zhao Feng asked with amusement.
"Tons and tons of food and lots of games!" Zhao Qi exaggerated.
"Hahaha!"
Zhao Feng burst into laughter and then turned to his daughter.
"Ling'er, what about you?"
"As long as Father is here, it's fun," Zhao Ling replied sweetly.
Hearing this, Zhao Feng was deeply moved and gave her a loving kiss on the forehead.
"You're still the best, my daughter. Let me kiss you." Zhao Feng said happily.
Indeed, only daughters are like little cotton-padded jackets, always keeping their fathers warm.
Meanwhile, at the high table, Ying Zheng sipped his wine. As he watched Zhao Feng laughing heartily with his two children, his gaze lingered on them.
"Wang Qing," Ying Zheng said with a smile, "those two children are your grandchildren?"
"Yes," Wang Jian nodded and replied immediately, "they are my two grandchildren. Though still young, they are quite sensible."
"They do look interesting."
As Ying Zheng observed them closely, he felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity and warmth toward Zhao Feng's children.
"That rascal Zhao Feng may seem careless, but he is very attentive when it comes to taking care of children."
"These two little ones cling to him all day long," Wang Jian said with a gratified smile.
Regarding this son-in-law of his, Wang Jian truly couldn't find a single flaw.
He treated his daughter well and held a high and powerful position there was simply no downside.
Ying Zheng nodded, then suddenly said, "Zhao Feng."
Amid the lively atmosphere, Zhao Feng looked at Ying Zheng in surprise. "What is it, Your Majesty?"
"Since Wang Ben is getting married today, what gift did you prepare?" Ying Zheng asked with a smile.
"That's a secret, Your Majesty. Perhaps you should ask my brother-in-law instead," Zhao Feng chuckled.
"Oh? What could you have given him that's so mysterious?"
"Now I'm curious," Ying Zheng said, clearly intrigued.
"Ben'er," Wang Jian interjected with a smile.
"Since His Majesty is curious, why not show him?"
"If His Majesty wishes to see it, then I shall not keep it hidden any longer."
"My brother-in-law's gift is a true rarity," Wang Ben said with a grin, signaling a maid to bring over a box.
When the box was opened, a faint white glow emanated from within. Inside was a stone that resembled jade, but its radiance surpassed that of any ordinary gemstone.
"What is this?"
"A luminous pearl?" Ying Zheng asked in surprise.
"My brother-in-law calls this a 'Spirit Stone,'" Wang Ben explained.
"Wearing it close to the body wards off illness, and it can also be used like a luminous pearl."
Ying Zheng picked up a piece, feeling a gentle warmth spread through his palm.
"This Spirit Stone is indeed extraordinary."
"It bears some resemblance to the He Shi Bi," Ying Zheng praised.
"Could the legendary He Shi Bi also be a Spirit Stone?"
Hearing Ying Zheng's comment, Zhao Feng immediately thought of it.
The He Shi Bi hailed as the greatest jade in the world and known as the foundation for the Imperial Seal.
"The mandate of heaven grants eternal prosperity."
Those eight words had echoed through history, never to be forgotten!
"Keep it safe."
"Your brother-in-law must have paid a great price to obtain it," Ying Zheng remarked with a smile, placing the Spirit Stone back into the box.
"I understand," Wang Ben replied with a smile.
"Let the banquet continue," Ying Zheng announced with a wave of his hand.
Zhao Feng also returned to his seat.
"This Qin King is quite amusing, asking me specifically about my gift," Zhao Feng thought to himself, feeling slightly speechless.
"Wait a moment."
"I just remembered I haven't claimed my promotion rewards yet!"
Ever since arriving in Xianyang, his first day had been spent drinking with the Qin King.
Then, he had spent his time at home with his wife, completely forgetting about the rewards for his promotion.
This time, the rewards would surely be substantial being promoted to Great General and rising two noble ranks at once!
"Claim promotion rewards," Zhao Feng commanded in his mind.
"Congratulations to the host for being promoted to Protector General, reward: one Tier-2 Treasure Chest."
"Congratulations to the host for advancing two noble ranks, reward: two Tier-2 Treasure Chests," the system notification appeared.
"As expected, the higher the rank, the better the rewards."
"Tier-2 Treasure Chests let's hope they contain something good," Zhao Feng thought eagerly, issuing the command to open them all.
"Opening Tier-2 Treasure Chests…"
"Acquired Earth-rank Martial Art: 'Reversal of the Eight Wastelands.'"
"Acquired 500 Mid-grade Spirit Stones."
"Acquired Tier-3 Alchemist Inheritance."
At first, Zhao Feng was only mildly excited about the Earth-rank martial arts.
Then, he remained calm upon seeing the Spirit Stones.
But when he saw the third reward, he couldn't stay composed.
"Alchemist Inheritance? And it's Tier-3?"
"This treasure chest was a massive jackpot!"
"Unbelievable!"
Zhao Feng's face lit up with excitement.
In this era, so-called alchemists also known as 'Fangshi' were, in reality, 99% frauds.
The so-called elixirs they concocted were mostly poison.
As for the remaining 1%, perhaps they had some real skills, but certainly not to this level.
Now, however, Zhao Feng had acquired a true Tier-3 Alchemist Inheritance.
This was priceless no amount of Spirit Stones could make him part with it!
For him and Yan Court, this was an enormous boon.
With the power of alchemy, Yan Court would become even stronger.
…
After the wedding banquet, Zhao Feng returned to his residence.
Eagerly, he claimed the Alchemist's Inheritance.
"Claim inheritance," Zhao Feng commanded.
In the next moment, a flood of alchemical knowledge surged into his mind.
Even though Zhao Feng already possessed advanced medical skills, they were nothing compared to the deep pharmacological knowledge of a true alchemist.
The sheer depth of this inheritance was overwhelming.
He had no idea how long had passed when he finally opened his eyes.
"As expected of an Alchemist Inheritance."
"Incredible."
"Mastering Tier-3 alchemy will take time, but I will need to refine real elixirs to fully grasp it."
Zhao Feng pondered secretly.
Then, he called out toward the hall entrance, "Zhang Ming."
"Master."
Zhang Ming pushed open the door and entered.
"Have Han Xi find me a few alchemy furnaces."
"Search for them discreetly."
"Once found, deliver them to me in secret," Zhao Feng instructed.
"Yes, sir." Zhang Ming immediately responded.
As for why Zhao Feng needed alchemy furnaces, Zhang Ming didn't ask.
After all, as a subordinate, it wasn't his place to question his master's orders. That would be a taboo.
"In a couple of days, I'll be attending Fusu's wedding."
"And then, it will be my own."
"Historically, Fusu was said to have married Li Si's daughter, but he always neglected her."
"The consequences of differing political views."
"But Fusu was still a bit childish. If it was a political marriage, so be it why neglect her? After all, he wouldn't be the one suffering. I don't understand him," Zhao Feng mused to himself.
"Master."
"Grand Physician Xia Wuqie requests an audience."
Zhang Ming returned and reported respectfully.
"Xia Wuqie?"
"What is he here for?" Zhao Feng was puzzled.
Back in the military hospital, Zhao Feng often worked with him to treat injured soldiers, and they had become somewhat familiar. But they weren't particularly close.
"Have him wait in the main hall."
"I'll be there shortly," Zhao Feng said.
"Yes, sir." Zhang Ming bowed and left.
A short while later.
Inside the main hall of the residence.
"Grand Physician Xia's visit brings great honor to my humble abode," Zhao Feng greeted politely with a cupped-fist salute.
"General Zhao, I have yet to congratulate you on becoming the fourth Supreme General of Qin," Xia Wuqie said with a smile.
"You flatter me, Grand Physician."
"Did you just return?" Zhao Feng asked curiously.
"Though the war has ended, there are still many wounded soldiers in the former Zhao territory. I stayed behind to treat them and only returned today," Xia Wuqie stroked his beard and smiled.
"And what brings you here today?" Zhao Feng asked directly.
"Where is Lady Zhao?"
"Didn't you ask me to check her pulse and see if there were any lingering health issues after giving birth to twins?" Xia Wuqie reminded him with a smile.
Hearing this, Zhao Feng suddenly remembered.
Indeed, he had mentioned this.
Back when he learned that Wang Yan had given birth to twins, Xia Wuqie was away in Zhao territory. Knowing the physician's remarkable skills, Zhao Feng had casually suggested that he examine Wang Yan upon his return and prescribe some nourishing medicine.
It was just an offhand remark, yet Xia Wuqie had remembered it.
That was something Zhao Feng hadn't expected.
"I didn't think Grand Physician Xia would still remember." Zhao Feng chuckled.
"How could I forget General Zhao's request?"
"By the way, when is your wedding banquet?"
"I've been looking forward to attending." Xia Wuqie laughed.
"The banquet will be held a few days after the Crown Prince's."
"I plan to host one in Xianyang first, then another back home for the villagers." Zhao Feng said with a smile.
"That is a good plan."
"Now that General Zhao is a Supreme General, and the King himself will attend your wedding banquet, it will be a grand affair." Xia Wuqie nodded approvingly.
"My wife is still at the royal estate. She won't return until after the official wedding, so, unfortunately, Grand Physician, you made a trip in vain today." Zhao Feng said apologetically.
"It's no trouble at all."
"I will return when your wife is home." Xia Wuqie reassured him.
"My thanks."
Zhao Feng expressed his gratitude.
…
A few days later.
Zhao Feng attended Fusu's wedding banquet.
The royal clan had decorated Fusu's estate festively, yet the atmosphere of the banquet was nowhere near as lively as at the royal palace.
Fusu wore a solemn expression, and so did Li Si's daughter.
Even when serving tea.
When Fusu served tea to King Ying Zheng and his mother, Consort Mi, he remained expressionless. He was just as indifferent when offering tea to Li Si and his wife.
In the end.
The entire wedding banquet proceeded in an awkward and strange atmosphere.
"Fusu, oh Fusu."
"The historical records were accurate after all."
"He is neglecting Li Si's daughter."
"This political marriage is truly peculiar." Zhao Feng mused, leaving with an amused smirk.
Even Ying Zheng wore a cold expression as he departed.
He had not been nearly as joyful as he was at Princess Liyang's wedding.
Inside Fusu's estate.
Within the bridal chamber.
Li Si's daughter sat on the bed, waiting.
Yet deep into the night, Fusu still did not enter the room.
Li Si's daughter's delicate face showed a trace of bitterness, but as a woman, she had no power to resist.
"Wang Yan…"
"I am not as fortunate as you."
"You changed your fate, escaped a political marriage, and even found yourself a Supreme General of Qin the youngest and most brilliant man in the empire."
"But me… I have married my father's political opponent."
"My life is destined to be one of neglect."
Li Si's daughter's face filled with sorrow.
Before her marriage, Li Rou had understood her fate. But she still held a sliver of hope that things would be different.
Yet in the end, reality remained unchanged. She could not alter her fate.
At the Li Estate.
"Father."
"Are we going to just let my sister suffer neglect in Fusu's household?"
"You saw Fusu's attitude today he was so cold even during the tea ceremony."
"My sister will surely live a life of misery," Li You said with frustration.
Sitting before him, Li Si's face was equally grim.
"You'er."
"This… is the nature of power."
"The King granted the marriage. As ministers, do we have the right to object?"
"Rou'er's misfortune is simply because she was born into the Li family. Even I cannot save her." Li Si let out a bitter smile.
"But… isn't there anything we can do?" Li You was unwilling to accept it.
"There is only one way."
"Fusu must never ascend to the throne."
"If he were just an ordinary prince, he wouldn't be at odds with me. Then perhaps Rou'er's situation would improve."
"But… sigh…" Li Si sighed deeply.
"Fusu is the Crown Prince. Among all the royal sons, he has the highest status, is the eldest, and has strong maternal support. The royal clan favors him. The future position of Crown Prince is practically his."
"There is no way to change that." Li You sighed.
"The future is never set in stone."
"You'er."
"You have served as governor of the northern frontier for several years now. Have you ever considered joining the military?" Li Si suddenly asked.
Li You was stunned and looked at his father in confusion. "Why do you ask this, Father? I have always wanted to join the military, but you never permitted it. Now, why are you encouraging me to enlist?"
"Heh."
"The circumstances have changed."
"You know of Zhao Feng, don't you?" Li Si gazed at Li You.
"Who in Qin doesn't know Supreme General Zhao Feng?"
"All my life, I have admired only one military leader Supreme General Wang Jian."
"But now, I admire another Supreme General Zhao Feng." Li You said solemnly, his respect evident.
"Zhao Feng has been granted the title of Supreme General."
"But his army has yet to be formed."
"Typically, a general's command consists of at least two divisions, possibly even three."
"I intend to help you secure a leadership position."
"You and I one civil, one military." Li Si smiled.
"I will follow Father's arrangements." Li You thought for a moment but did not refuse.
Besides, he truly respected Zhao Feng.
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